2026 Afghanistan–Pakistan war

An armed conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan in 2026.

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Durand Line: The boundary established between Afghanistan and British India in 1893, now separating Afghanistan and Pakistan. Disagreement over recognizing this boundary has repeatedly strained relations between the two countries.
Cross-border insurgency: An armed campaign in which fighters operate across an international boundary. Militant movement across the frontier is a recurring source of confrontation.
Taliban: An Islamist political and military movement that has governed Afghanistan since 2021. The movement leads Afghanistan's government and forces in the conflict.
Civilian casualties: Deaths and injuries among people who are not members of armed forces or armed groups. Civilian casualties are a central measure of the war's human cost.
Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan: An Islamist militant organization that has waged an insurgency against the Pakistani state since 2007. Pakistan has linked cross-border militant attacks to TTP sanctuary in Afghanistan.
Airstrike: An attack against a ground target carried out by aircraft or other airborne weapons. Airstrikes can extend clashes beyond border posts and trigger retaliation.
Pakistan Armed Forces: Pakistan's military institutions, including its army, navy, and air force. They conduct Pakistan's military operations and oversee national defense.
Displacement: The forced movement of people from their homes because of conflict, violence, or disaster. Fighting near populated areas can force families to flee.
Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan: The name used by Afghanistan's Taliban government, which returned to power in 2021. Its relationship with Pakistan and its handling of militant groups shape bilateral security disputes.
Retaliation: An action taken in response to a perceived attack or injury. Reciprocal responses can turn a limited border incident into a wider conflict.